Riley Gaines Criticizes Trump Over Epstein Files Amid MAGA Backlash

A significant divide has emerged within the MAGA movement over President Donald Trump's handling of the Jeffrey Epstein files, with Trump dismissing ongoing demands for their release as a distraction and branding them a 'hoax' propagated by his political opponents. Conservative activist Riley Gaines, who supported Trump primarily for other policy stances, has publicly criticized his reversal on releasing these files, insisting she wants accountability for pedophiles and questioning why Trump now dismisses an issue he once campaigned on. Despite facing backlash from MAGA supporters accusing her of turning against Trump or siding with Democrats, Gaines maintains her support for the president while advocating for transparency on Epstein-related matters. Meanwhile, Rep. Jamie Raskin suggested on CNN that Trump’s reluctance to release the files might be motivated by criminal intent, such as blackmail, highlighting the broader suspicion around the case. In response to the controversy, Trump and his administration have considered various strategies to manage the fallout, including potentially unsealing documents, appointing a special prosecutor, and encouraging MAGA influencers to shift focus to other priorities. This issue underscores ongoing tensions within the Republican base as questions about Epstein’s case continue to provoke debate and scrutiny.